Disney Brings Young Woman and the Sea Screenings to Young Athletes

Disney’s Young Woman and the Sea shares the extraordinary true story of Trudy Ederle, the first woman to successfully swim the English Channel. Daisy Ridley stars as the accomplished swimmer who overcame adversity and the animosity of a patriarchal society to rise through the ranks of the Olympic swimming team and complete the staggering achievement – a 21-mile trek from France to England.

To celebrate the launch of this inspirational drama, Disney, ESPN, Walt Disney World Resort, and Disney UK brought special screenings of the film and personal messages from Ridley to young athletes in the US and UK.

ESPN worked with longtime collaborator The Women’s Sports Foundation to invite swim-focused organizations in Los Angeles, New York, and Philadelphia to special pre-screenings of the film. Before the film started, staff and athletes were surprised with a personalized greeting from Ridley, who spoke to the importance of finding your inner strength and never giving up.

Over at Walt Disney World Resort, students from Florida nonprofits enjoyed a special screening of Young Woman and the Sea at Disney Springs. Ridley shared a message about the importance of swim safety before the film began. Perfect timing, as the students prepared to participate in The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park in June.

The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson is annual event held at a variety of locations across the world. It is designed to empower children with the skills and knowledge they need to swim safely and help prevent drowning – a top priority for the state of Florida with so many pools and waterways across the state.

Over in the UK, the Disney team worked with Superhero Series to bring inspiration to athletes prior to their triathlon later this summer. The Superhero Triathlon brings disabled athletes together and encourages them to find their inner superpowers while completing the events.

Ridley recorded a message of encouragement and luck for the athletes that was shared with the organization’s members in June. Some Superhero Series athletes were also invited to attend the UK premiere of the film and meet some of the cast and crew, who enthusiastically wished them luck on the upcoming race.

Watch Daisy Ridley take on the role of Trudy Ederle and inspire a nation in Disney’s Young Woman and the Sea, now streaming on Disney+.

To learn more about Disney’s commitment to supporting the next generation of storytellers and innovators, please visit impact.disney.com.